Focusrite announces the launch and worldwide availability of its second generation of Scarlett USB audio interfaces, six in total, as well as two studio pack bundles: Scarlett Solo ($99.99 MAP; Solo Studio Pack: MAP $199.99); Scarlett 2i2 ($149.99 MAP; 2i2 Studio Pack: MAP $249.99); Scarlett 2i4 ($199.99 MAP); Scarlett 6i6 ($249.99 MAP); Scarlett 18i8 ($349.99 MAP); and Scarlett 18i20 ($499.99 MAP). The bus-powered range of Scarlett second generation interfaces is available immediately, with the Scarlett 6i6, 18i8 and 18i20 following later in June. The Scarlett range is Mac and PC compatible, working across all major DAWs.
The I/O count of every interface remains the same, while promising Focusrite’s fastest USB performance yet, with round-trip latency measurements stated to be as low as 2.74ms (tested at 96 kHz on Mac OS 10.11/Mac Pro with Logic Pro X and a buffer size of 32).
The new interfaces range from the 2-input/2-output, single mic preamp Scarlett Solo up to the rack-mounted 18-input/20-output Scarlett 18i20. The units include new metal gain controls and a sleeker red metal chassis. The latest Scarlett mic preamp promises a more even gain structure. The instrument input has also been completely redesigned with increased headroom.
Focusrite has provided analog protection circuitry across both the inputs and the outputs to guard the interfaces against unwanted power surges. The Scarlett range also now operates at sample rates up to 192 kHz.
Following the announcement of an alliance between Focusrite and Avid, Scarlett second-generation interfaces will also ship with Avid Pro Tools | First. Named Focusrite Creative Pack, the exclusive offering features the free version of Pro Tools digital audio software and 12 additional plug-ins, which include the Eleven Lite and Tape Echo. Focusrite and Avid will continue to collaborate closely to ensure that all new Scarlett interfaces are compatible with each new version of Pro Tools. Also provided are Ableton Live Lite, Softube’s Time and Tone bundle, the Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, 2 GB of Loopmasters samples, and more.
Find more information at us.focusrite.com/scarlett-range.
